As the familiar tune of “Pomp and Circumstance” filled the air, graduates from Biola University’s eight academic schools gathered for commencement ceremonies on May 8 and 9, marking the culmination of years of academic study, vocational preparation and spiritual formation. Just under 1,000 students crossed the stage during the two exercises to commemorate their time as Biola students.

In welcoming graduates to the celebration, the president of Biola, Dr. Barry H. Corey, shared his hopes for the graduates sitting before him.

“I pray that your education, rich in the timeless virtues of God’s truth, has prepared you for your future fields of influence,” said Corey. “On Wednesday, I walked these chairs praying over you students who’d be sitting in them tonight, precious souls, beloved children of God, little Christs, that you may be filled with Jesus’ love to influence the world for him. May God give you wisdom and favor and joy throughout your life, come what may.”

image shows students singing in the Chorale

With nearly 4,000 guests in attendance at each ceremony, the lawn was filled with the melodic voices of the Biola Chorale, led by director Shawna Stewart, and the soulful rhythm of the Biola Gospel Choir, led by Roman Collins. During the May 8 ceremony, Steve Green, president of Hobby Lobby, delivered the commencement address, where he reflected on the role the Bible has played in both his personal and professional journey, encouraging graduates to see Scripture not only as historically trustworthy, but as a guide that brings purpose, hope and meaning to life.

“You can run into a brick wall and learn a lesson the hard way. Brick walls don’t move. Or you can see someone else run into a brick wall and learn the lesson. I suggest the latter. All you have, all your skills and abilities, they are all a gift from God. You are only stewards of what He has blessed you with,” said Green.

Dr. Crawford Loritts, pastor and author of nine books and president of the nonprofit ministry Beyond Our Generation, addressed graduates on May 9, including his grandson Myles. Loritts used King David’s charge to his son Solomon in 1 Kings to live courageously as his own to Biola graduates.

image shows students at graduation

“People may recognize and award you for what you accomplish but true honor is given to those who are in relentless pursuit of the noble, that which is consistently and enduringly right,” said Loritts. “So, decide to live courageously, obediently and faithfully. When we’re born, we look like our parents, but when we die, we look like our decisions.”

image shows a student shaking hands with Dr. Corey

After hearing the speaker’s charges, graduates crossed the stage to celebrate their well-earned degrees, sealing their time as students at Biola with a handshake from President Corey. After being showered with streamers, graduates met and celebrated with their guests around Biola’s campus.

On Friday, May 8, graduates from the Rosemead School of Psychology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Fine Arts and Communication and School of Science, Technology and Health received their degrees. On Saturday, May 10, graduates from the Crowell School of Business, School of Education, Snyder School of Cinema & Media Arts, and Talbot School of Theology crossed the stage.

For those who were unable to attend in person, a live stream of the May 8 and the May 9 was available and can be viewed online. Additional Biola commencement information can be found on Biola’s commencement website. Visit the photo album on Biola’s Facebook page featuring moments captured during the ceremonies.

Written by Sarah Dougher, strategic communication manager. For more information, email sarah.m.dougher@biola.edu.